Cavoodles are affectionate, energetic pups that bring boundless joy to their families.

However, their genetic makeup can make them prone to health concerns like heart issues, joint problems, and skin sensitivities, which can affect their overall well-being.

That’s where real food comes in.

Cavoodles thrive on a fresh diet packed with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich ingredients to support their health from the inside out.

Whether you’re aiming to soothe itchy skin or ease joint discomfort, real food can play a crucial role in keeping your Cavoodle healthy and happy.

Health issue #1 — skin allergies and itchiness

Cavoodles can be prone to food and environmental allergies which can trigger hives and itchy skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis. Ear infections, excessive licking or over-grooming, and inflammation are common signs of an allergic reaction.

Allergies trigger a pup’s immune system which releases histamines to defend the body against the invading allergen. It’s these histamines that cause the red, itchy and inflamed skin. The gut microbiome helps to modulate the immune system, making gut health vital for allergen defence.

Boost their gut health and their immune response with a fresh food diet that contains skin-enriching nutrients, including:

🐟 Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Essential for skin and coat health.
💚 Spirulina: A powerful superfood that contains high antioxidant levels and anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to reduce allergic inflammation.
🍄 Shiitake mushrooms: A bioactive, antihistaminic food that can boost your dog’s immune response against an allergen.

Lyka only uses grass-fed, free-range, barn-raised or wild-caught animal proteins that are less prone to inflame the skin than grain-fed proteins. Lyka doesn't contain pro-inflammatory starches and lectins and other common allergens used in commercial pet food like wheat, corn, soy and dairy.

Read more: Dog skin allergies: triggers, symptoms and itch relief (with photos) →

Health issue #2 — heart conditions

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is the most common cardiac illness in dogs, though it tends to be more prevalent in smaller breeds. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are especially prone to MVD which means that Cavoodles can inherit this disease too.

Mild cases of MVD may not show any noticeable signs in your pup and it’s usually identified during a routine health check by your vet. The disease is degenerative but it progresses slowly. However, it can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF). Always, check with your vet if you have any concerns about your Cavoodle’s health.

Dogs with MVD and CHF are usually advised to eat a low-sodium diet as too much salt increases their blood pressure and puts their heart under more stress.

Support your dog’s heart health by feeding them a fresh, wholefood diet that contains powerful ingredients known for their cardiovascular benefits:

🍄 Mushrooms: Bursting with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals for cardiovascular health.
🥦 Broccoli: A rich source of potassium for a strong heart rhythm and optimal blood pressure.
🌱 Chia seeds: Small but mighty, these tiny seeds contain antioxidants to combat oxidative stress, and are high in fibre to promote satiety and support weight management.

Health issue #3 — joint issues

Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation are two common genetic joint issues experienced by Cavoodles.

Hip dysplasia describes the abnormal development of the ball and socket hip joint. When a dog develops this condition, their hip socket is usually shallow and flattened which causes the hip ball to slip. Joints like these often develop arthritis as the body tries to compensate for unstable movement.

Although there is a genetic link to hip dysplasia, it can also be caused when puppies grow too quickly due to too much calcium or protein in their diet.

Patellar Luxation is another term for a dislocated kneecap. Like hip dysplasia, this can be caused by abnormal joint development, this time of the knee groove where the patella sits.

Feed your Cavoodle anti-inflammatory foods with the right ratio of omega fatty acids to help keep joints healthy. Lyka meals contain an Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio between 3:1 and 3.8:1: much lower than the AAFCO recommended ratio of 30:1.

Our in-house Integrative Veterinarian, Dr Matthew Muir and our veterinary nutritionist have determined this range from their clinical insights and appraisal of up-to-date scientific evidence.

We use fish oil and sardines which are full of omega-3 fatty acids to support common joint ailments in Cavoodles. Our meals also contain a variety of vegetables and plant superfoods rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients to help protect joints and joint fluid by decreasing free radicals:

🥥 Coconut: Full of potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to support supple joints.
🌾 Quinoa: A natural source of manganese, vital for healthy bone development.
🧡 Turmeric: Contains the active ingredient curcumin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to fight chronic inflammation and arthritis symptoms.

Each meal is portion-controlled to keep your pup at their ideal weight and reduce strain on joints. You can even select our lower fat Kangaroo, Chicken, Turkey, and Beef recipes for greater control of your Cavoodle’s diet.

Read more: Hip dysplasia: how can your dog's diet help? →

Why choose Lyka for your Cavoodle?

Developed by board-certified nutritionists, alongside Co-founder and Integrative Veterinarian, Dr. Matthew Muir, Lyka meals are crafted with fresh, real food ingredients to support heart health, soothe sensitive skin, and promote overall happiness.

Each Lyka meal:

• Contains antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory ingredients to help keep joints strong and reduce inflammation.

• Is packed with high-quality protein and low-GI carbs for sustained energy and satiety, custom-portioned for your Cavoodle’s unique needs.

• Supports gut health, providing an ideal environment for mood-balancing neurotransmitters like serotonin to flourish.

Is your Cavoodle ready to feel the difference?